See ‘Akira’ in full aural capacity

Experience animation artist Katsuhiro Otomo’s masterworks in a way you’re unlikely to have done before. The Bakuon 2013 film event in Tokyo is showcasing various anime films by the renowned artist in a space with acoustics designed for music festivals. So, consider yourself warned — the screenings will be extremely loud.

“Bakuon (extremely loud) is the right way to enjoy a movie,” say the organizers, who have been hosting a series of loud movie events in recent years.

Katsuhiro Otomo is internationally best known for “Akira”, his cyber-punk anime classic, which was originally released in 1988 and is one of the festival’s highlights. The milestone work, set in post-apocalyptic Tokyo of 2019, has gone on to influence many of today’s top manga creators, as well as numerous other artists around the world. If you are a hardened “Akira” fan, be sure to check out both the digitally re-mastered version of the movie as well as the 35 mm film version, which will be played on rotation depending on the day.

Other notable films to be shown include “Memories,” “Steamboy,” “Short Peace” and “Mushishi.” A special exhibition of movie posters and art based on Otomo’s work will also take place at the event.

For the fans outside of Tokyo, Otomo’s works will visit Fukuoka on Dec. 21 and Kobe on Dec. 26 and 27.

Bakuon 2013, featuring Katsuhiro Otomo’s works takes place at Baus Theater in Kichijoji, Tokyo, from Dec. 7 to Dec. 20. Tickets are ¥1,500 per film. Schedules vary. For more information, visit www.bakuon-bb.net.